Japan's Golden Route
Japan
Japan's classic first-timer circuit from Tokyo to Osaka, Mt Fuji's perfect cone above the Hakone caldera, Kyoto's 2,000 temples (Kinkaku-ji, Fushimi Inari's 10,000 torii gates, Arashiyama's bamboo grove), Nara's free-roaming deer and colossal bronze Buddha, and Osaka's legendary street food and castle. The template for Japan travel since the bullet train opened in 1964.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Tokyo
The world's largest city: Tsukiji breakfast sushi, Shibuya scramble crossing, Senso-ji temple, and 200-bar Golden Gai in Shinjuku.
- Hakone
Volcanic caldera with Mt Fuji reflected in Lake Ashi on clear mornings. Owakudani's sulphur vents and the Open Air Museum fill the day.
- Mount Fuji
Japan's sacred cone at 3,776 m, clearest from the Fujinomiya 5th Station approach on the south face, with the Pacific visible below.
- Kyoto
The soul of Japan: Kinkaku-ji's golden pavilion, Fushimi Inari's 10,000 torii gates, Arashiyama's bamboo grove, and Gion's geisha lanes.
- Nara
1,200 free-roaming sika deer in Nara Park surround Todai-ji, the world's largest wooden building, housing a 15 m bronze Buddha from 752 AD.
- Osaka
Japan's kitchen: takoyaki and okonomiyaki in neon-lit Dotonbori, Kuromon market, and Osaka Castle mark the circuit's end.
Where to Eat
- Kaiseki KadanKaiseki
Experience traditional multi-course Japanese dining with seasonal ingredients in an elegant setting.
- Yamamoto MenzouUdon
Savor handmade udon noodles in rich broth at this renowned Kyoto eatery.
- Kura Sushi NambaSushi
Enjoy conveyor belt sushi with a wide variety of fresh options in a lively atmosphere.
- Kobe Beef Steak MouriyaSteakhouse
Indulge in premium Kobe beef steaks grilled to perfection in a historic setting.
Things to Do
- Hakone Open-Air MuseumMuseum
Explore sculptures and artworks set against the backdrop of Hakone's natural beauty.
- Fushimi Inari ShrineHistoric Site
Walk through thousands of vermilion torii gates leading up Mount Inari.
- Nara ParkPark
Meet friendly free-roaming deer in this expansive park with historic temples.
- DotonboriEntertainment District
Experience Osaka's vibrant nightlife with neon lights, street food, and shopping.